In the complex web of international relations, India’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has undergone significant changes over the years. Let’s delve into the historical context and recent developments that have shaped India’s stance.
Historical Ties
India Palestine relations date back to the early days of its independence. In 1947, India voted against the partition of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly. Subsequently, India recognized the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people in 1974. The country also became one of the first to recognize the State of Palestine in 1988.
On the other hand, India’s recognition of Israel came later, in 1950. Diplomatic relations between the two nations were established only in 1992, and previous Indian governments maintained discreet dealings with Israel.
India Palestine relations: A Shift in India’s Stance
Fast forward to October 27, 2023. India found itself in a delicate position during the ongoing Gaza war. While many countries backed a United Nations resolution calling for a “humanitarian truce” in Gaza, India chose to abstain. This decision marked a departure from its traditional approach to Israeli-Palestinian conflicts.
So, what changed? India’s current pro-Israel stance can be attributed to several factors:
- Arms Trade: India now purchases approximately $2 billion worth of arms from Israel annually, constituting over 30% of Israel’s total arms exports. This strategic partnership has influenced India’s position in the conflict.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Support: Since taking office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently expressed support for Israel. His recent statement on social media, denouncing “terrorist attacks” and standing in solidarity with Israel, underscored this alignment.
- Counterterrorism Perspective: India views the conflict through the lens of counterterrorism. It perceives Israel’s actions in Gaza as part of a counterterrorism operation, which explains its abstention from the UN resolution calling for a ceasefire.
- Domestic Politics: While foreign policy considerations play a significant role, domestic politics also influence India’s stance. Pro-Israel rallies have become common in India, while pro-Palestine demonstrations face government crackdowns.
India Palestine solidarity
In 1974, India became the first non-Arab country to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. This recognition was a significant step in establishing India Palestine relations.
Despite the recent shift, India maintains that its position on Palestine remains consistent.The Ministry spokesperson emphasized that India advocates for direct negotiations leading to a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state living in peace alongside Israel. Prime Minister Modi’s reaffirmation of India’s unwavering support for peace based on international law further underscores this commitment to India Palestine relations.
Indian government on Gaza
During the ongoing Gaza war, India has refrained from directly holding Israel accountable for Palestinian civilian deaths. Instead, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated calls for a two-state solution.
Good to meet with Palestinian FM Dr. Riyad al-Maliki in Kampala this afternoon.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) January 20, 2024
Had a detailed and comprehensive discussion on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Exchanged views on its humanitarian and political dimensions. Reiterated India’s support for a two-state solution.… pic.twitter.com/9GJNzPqqfg
This stance diverges from fellow BRICS members—Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa—who have separately denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Recent Developments:
- Last December, India voted in favor of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza at the United Nations, opposing Israel and the United States.
- However, in April 2024, India abstained from a Human Rights Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and an arms embargo against Israel. In recent times, India has taken a stronger pro-Israel stand during the ongoing Gaza conflict.
- More recently, India joined 152 other countries in voting for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza at the UN General Assembly.
India Palestine Aid
In a significant display of solidarity, India has dispatched humanitarian aid to the strife-torn Palestinian territories, specifically the Gaza Strip. As the conflict between Hamas and Israel continues, India’s gesture aims to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Through contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), India has sent 70 tonnes of assistance, including 16.5 tonnes of medicines and medical supplies via Egypt.
Over the last two decades, India has contributed over $35 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which supports Palestinian refugees. This financial aid has been instrumental in providing essential services, education, and healthcare to those displaced by the conflict.
As the conflict persists, India’s humanitarian aid serves as a beacon of hope for the people of Palestine and India Palestine relations.
India Palestine Trade
India and Palestine, despite their geographical distance, share a unique bond that extends beyond diplomatic India Palestine relations. Over the years, their bilateral trade has evolved, reflecting both economic interests and historical ties. Let’s delve into the details of this trade relationship.
Trade Volumes
While limited data is available, annual bilateral trade between India and Palestine hovers around $40 million. This modest figure reflects the challenges posed by political instability, regional conflicts, and logistical constraints. However, it also highlights the resilience of economic ties between the two nations.
India’s Exports to Palestine
India’s exports to Palestine encompass a diverse range of products. Notable among them are:
- Unglazed Ceramics: India exports unglazed ceramics valued at $38.2 million to Palestine. These ceramics find applications in construction, home decor, and industrial settings.
- Rice: Rice, a staple food in both countries, constitutes a significant export. In 2022, India exported rice worth $35.3 million to Palestine, contributing to food security.
- Cars: The automobile industry plays a role as well. India shipped cars worth $6.23 million to Palestine, reflecting the demand for affordable vehicles.
Palestinian Exports to India
Palestine’s exports to India are more specialized. Key products include:
- Olive Oil: Olive oil, a symbol of Palestinian heritage, is exported to India. Its health benefits and culinary versatility make it a sought-after commodity.
- Dates: Dates, another agricultural product, hold cultural significance in both countries. India appreciates the quality and taste of Palestinian dates.
Cultural Exchange
Beyond trade, cultural exchange plays a vital role. Indian arts, music, and cinema resonate with the Palestinian population. Bollywood movies, in particular, enjoy popularity, transcending language barriers and providing a glimpse into Indian culture.
Challenges and Opportunities
The India-Palestine trade relationship faces challenges:
- Geopolitical Constraints: The Israeli-Palestinian conflict impacts trade routes, hindering smooth commerce. Political tensions can disrupt logistics and financial transactions.
- Infrastructure Development: Both nations need to invest in infrastructure to enhance connectivity. Improved transportation links can boost trade volumes.
Despite these challenges, opportunities exist:
- Diversification: Expanding the range of traded goods can strengthen economic ties. Focusing on high-value products and services can yield mutual benefits.
- Investment: Encouraging Indian companies to invest in Palestine and vice versa can foster economic growth. Joint ventures and technology transfer are avenues to explore
India palestine support: All Eyes on Rafah
A wave of solidarity is sweeping across Instagram as users from around the world post and share messages with the hashtag “All Eyes On Rafah.” This social media campaign aims to draw global attention to the situation in Rafah, a city in the southern Gaza Strip, and show support for the people of Palestine. Joining this digital movement are several prominent Indian celebrities, who are amplifying the cause with their vast followings.
“All Eyes on Rafah” refers to the ongoing crisis in this Gaza city, highlighting the severe impact of Israeli strikes.The slogan “All Eyes on Rafah” comes from a comment by Rick Peeperkorn, director of the World Health Organization’s Office of the Occupied Palestinian Territories. In February, he said, “All eyes are on Rafah,” after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an evacuation plan for the city before planned attacks on what he claimed were the last Hamas strongholds.
The campaign has gained significant traction, with posts being shared by thousands, including notable Indian personalities. Among the celebrities lending their voices are Bollywood stars, social media influencers, and sports figures. They have used their platforms to raise awareness about the ongoing issues in Rafah, express solidarity, and call for peace and justice.
Ritika Sajdeh, wife of Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, also showed her support by sharing the “All Eyes On Rafah” post on her Instagram story, joining many others advocating for the Palestinian cause. However, her participation was met with trolling, and the story has reportedly been deleted.
Bollywood celebrities like Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar, and Dia Mirza have also joined the movement, each posting messages to their millions of followers. Their involvement has significantly boosted the visibility of the campaign, encouraging more people to educate themselves and take a stand. Various countries and regional actors are involved in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Conclusion
The evolving stance on India Palestine relations reflects the complexities of geopolitics. As the Gaza crisis persists, India’s role remains pivotal. The delicate balancing act between supporting Israel and advocating for Palestinian rights underscores the challenges faced by the Indian nation seeking to assert its position on the global stage.